Quality Control
Every Watch Is Checked Before It Ships
Every watch is inspected before shipment. Our QC process combines visual inspection, functional checks, and timegrapher testing to identify obvious cosmetic, operational, or movement-performance issues before the watch leaves us.
After QC is completed, we send you photos and video of the actual watch prepared for your order. You can review the watch before shipment, and we will wait for your approval before dispatching your order.
QC is an inspection process—not a claim that a mechanical watch will perform identically under every condition after delivery. The goal is to verify the condition and operation of the individual watch at the time we prepare it for shipment.
Our QC Standard
Inspection Is Standard. You See and Approve Your Watch Before Shipment.
You do not need to request QC. Pre-shipment inspection is part of our normal order process. After inspection, we send you QC photos and video of the actual watch prepared for your order and wait for your approval before shipment.
01
Visual Inspection
We check the visible condition of the case, dial, hands, markers, crystal, bracelet or strap, and other applicable exterior components.
02
Functional Check
Applicable controls and functions are operated to check normal behavior before the watch is prepared for customer review.
03
Movement Test
Mechanical movement performance is checked on a timegrapher before shipment and reviewed according to the watch's quality tier.
See your actual watch before it ships. You do not need to request QC photos or video. After inspection, we send you QC photos and video of the actual watch prepared for your order. We wait for you to review and approve the QC before shipment. If there is a particular detail you would like us to show or check, let us know after placing your order.
Step 01 / Visual Inspection
We Start With the Watch You Can See
Before movement readings matter, the watch needs to pass a basic visual inspection. We review the individual watch for noticeable cosmetic issues, alignment problems, and overall presentation.
The watch is examined closely for visible defects, noticeable misalignment, finishing inconsistencies, and other issues that can be identified before shipment.
Case & Surface Finishing
Polished and brushed surfaces are reviewed for obvious inconsistencies, visible defects, or abnormal marks.
Dial & Markers
Dial printing, indices, markers, and other visible elements are checked for noticeable alignment or presentation issues.
Hands
Hand position and alignment are reviewed, including alignment around key reference positions where applicable.
Overall Condition
The assembled watch is reviewed as a whole before moving to functional and movement checks.
Step 02 / Function Check
Controls and Functions Are Checked Before Shipment
A watch can look correct and still have an operational issue. Applicable controls and complications are therefore checked as part of pre-shipment inspection.
Crown & Winding
The crown is operated to check normal winding and setting behavior according to the movement and model.
Time Setting
Hour and minute adjustment are checked for normal operation.
Calendar Functions
Date, day, or other applicable calendar functions are checked where the watch includes them.
Additional Functions
GMT, chronograph, bezel, and other applicable functions are checked according to the specific watch.
Not every watch has the same functions. Functional QC is model-dependent. A simple three-hand watch and a chronograph or GMT model do not require exactly the same checks.
Step 03 / Movement Test
Mechanical Performance Is Checked on a Timegrapher
A timegrapher gives us a snapshot of mechanical movement performance during inspection. Depending on the movement, the display can show rate, amplitude, beat error, beat rate, and waveform behavior.
This video shows an actual timegrapher test. The values shown are readings from this particular test and should not be interpreted as universal specifications for every watch or movement.
Example Reading
What the Timegrapher Is Showing
The following values are an example from the test shown above. They illustrate how to read the instrument—not fixed QC targets for every watch we sell.
RATE
−3 sec/day
Rate estimates how much the movement is gaining or losing per day under the conditions and position used during that test.
AMPLITUDE
279°
Amplitude measures the balance wheel's swing during the test and is one of the readings used when evaluating movement behavior.
BEAT ERROR
0.1 ms
Beat error measures timing symmetry between the two directions of the balance oscillation during the test.
BEAT RATE
28,800 bph
Beat rate shows the operating frequency detected during this particular test.
WAVEFORM
Pattern Observation
The waveform is reviewed for obvious irregularity or instability during the measurement period.
IMPORTANT
One Test, One Moment
Timegrapher results describe movement behavior during the test. Position, state of wind, temperature, use, and movement condition can change later readings.
Rate Targets
The Pre-Shipment Rate Target Depends on the Quality Tier
We do not apply one rate target to every watch. The expected pre-shipment tolerance becomes tighter as you move through our Asian, Swiss, and 1:1 Clone quality levels.
| Quality Tier | Pre-Shipment Rate Target | QC Position |
|---|---|---|
| Asian | Approx. ±30–60 sec/day | Entry-level mechanical tolerance |
| Swiss | Approx. ±10–15 sec/day | Tighter mid-tier target |
| 1:1 Clone | Within ±5 sec/day | Our tightest pre-shipment rate target |
These are pre-shipment QC targets, not lifetime guarantees. Mechanical watch performance can change with position, state of wind, temperature, magnetism, impact, use, and service condition.
For a full explanation of how these targets differ across our three product levels, see the Quality Tiers guide.
If Something Is Wrong
A Watch That Does Not Pass QC Is Not Sent for Customer Approval
If inspection identifies a meaningful issue, the watch is held for further review rather than being treated as ready for QC approval or shipment.
01
Recheck
The issue is reviewed again to determine whether it is a testing, adjustment, cosmetic, or functional problem.
02
Adjust or Replace
Where appropriate, the movement may be regulated or the watch may be replaced rather than presented as ready for approval.
03
Test Again
The watch is checked again before QC photos and video are prepared for customer review.
The exact resolution depends on the issue. QC is intended to identify problems before customer approval and dispatch—not to turn a failed inspection into an acceptable result on paper.
Water Resistance
Standard QC Is Not the Same as a Water-Resistance Certification
Water resistance varies by model, factory, construction, seals, assembly, and individual watch.
A water-resistance rating associated with the genuine reference should not automatically be assumed to apply to the watch being sold.
Factory-stated water-resistance information is also different from an independent pressure-test result for the individual watch.
If water use is important to you, contact us before shipment so we can confirm what information or testing options are available for the specific model.
Final Step
Review and Approve Your Watch Before Shipment
After the applicable inspections are completed, we prepare QC photos and video of the actual watch for your order and send them to you for review. Your order is shipped only after we receive your QC approval.
QC COMPLETE
Final Review
The watch is reviewed in its final condition after completing the applicable visual, functional, and movement checks.
YOUR WATCH
Photos & Video
We send you QC photos and video of the actual watch prepared for your order so you can review its condition and key details.
YOUR APPROVAL
Ship After Approval
We wait for your QC approval before proceeding with shipment. Once approved, the watch moves to packing and dispatch.
We do not ship before QC approval. Please review the QC photos and video we send you and confirm your approval. Once your approval is received, we can proceed with packing and shipment.
Your Pre-Shipment QC
Standard QC Is Automatic. Special Requests Are Welcome.
You do not need to request standard QC photos or video. They are sent as part of our normal pre-shipment process. If there is something you are particularly concerned about, let us know after placing your order so we can pay additional attention to that detail during inspection.
Dial Alignment
If dial printing, markers, indices, or hand alignment are especially important to you, let us know and we can pay particular attention to them during QC.
Date Display
If requested, we can pay particular attention to the date window, date wheel presentation, or applicable calendar operation.
Bezel
If bezel alignment or operation is a particular concern, let us know so we can give it additional attention during inspection.
Specific Function
If GMT, chronograph, crown operation, or another function is especially important to you, tell us what you would like us to check.
No QC media request is required. Photos and video of your actual watch are sent as part of our normal pre-shipment process, and we wait for your approval before shipping. If you contact us about a specific QC concern, please provide your order number so we can identify the correct order.
Questions & Answers
Quality Control FAQ
Do you perform quality control on every watch?
Yes. Every watch goes through pre-shipment inspection, including visual and functional checks and timegrapher testing as part of our normal QC process.
Do I have to request QC before you inspect my watch?
No. QC is part of our normal pre-shipment process. Every watch is inspected before shipment, and QC photos and video of the actual watch prepared for your order are sent to you for review and approval.
Will I receive photos and video of my watch before it ships?
Yes. After your watch completes our QC process, we send you photos and video of the actual watch prepared for your order. This is part of our normal pre-shipment process and does not need to be requested separately.
Do I need to approve the QC before my order ships?
Yes. Please review the QC photos and video we send you and confirm your approval. We arrange shipment only after your QC approval is received.
Can I request a specific angle or detail to be checked?
Yes. In addition to the standard QC photos and video we send before shipment, you can ask us to pay particular attention to a specific concern such as alignment, date presentation, bezel position, movement readings, or a particular function. Please provide your order number when making a special QC request.
What timegrapher results are considered acceptable?
Rate targets depend on the quality tier. Asian, Swiss, and 1:1 Clone watches therefore do not all use the same pre-shipment rate target. Other readings and waveform behavior are reviewed as part of the movement inspection rather than presented here as one universal pass/fail number for every caliber.
Are the timegrapher readings guaranteed after delivery?
No. A timegrapher records movement behavior under the conditions present during testing. Mechanical performance can change with position, state of wind, temperature, magnetism, impact, use, and service condition.
What happens if a watch does not pass QC?
The watch is held for further review rather than being sent for approval or shipment. Depending on the issue, it may be rechecked, adjusted, regulated, or replaced and then tested again before QC materials are prepared for you.
What happens after I approve the QC?
Once we receive your QC approval, the watch moves to final packing and shipment preparation. We then proceed with dispatch according to the shipping method applicable to your order.
Do you test water resistance?
Standard pre-shipment QC should not be treated as an independent water-resistance certification. Water resistance is model-dependent. If water use or pressure testing is important to you, contact us before shipment so we can confirm the available options for the specific watch.
Is QC the same as a full movement service?
No. QC is a pre-shipment inspection and functional test. It is not a full movement disassembly, cleaning, lubrication, or overhaul service.
After Delivery
QC and Returns Are Separate Processes
Pre-shipment QC and customer approval are intended to identify and review issues before dispatch. They do not replace the terms that apply after delivery.
ReplicaFactory supports a 30-day return policy subject to the applicable eligibility, authorization, condition, and return requirements. Please review our Return & Refund Policy for the complete terms.
Continue Reading
Understand the Standards Behind Our QC
These guides explain why QC targets differ between product levels and how technical specifications should be interpreted.
See and Approve Your Watch Before It Ships
Every watch goes through QC before shipment. We send you photos and video of the actual watch prepared for your order so you can review it before dispatch. We wait for your approval before shipping. If you would like us to pay particular attention to alignment, date display, bezel position, movement readings, or another detail, contact us after placing your order and let us know.
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